Ron Levy Aquatic Center. Have Goggles, Will Travel Pool #108

Quick pre-flight swim!

Quick swim before I head to MIA for a flight up to New York City.

After a 5:30 am wake-up call from a Key West wild Cockrell, make a quick loop of Florida’s most southern key, then head the three hours north up the US 1 overseas highway towards Miami for my evening flight to New York, JFK. Traffic on the US 1 can be unpredictable, with this being a spring break weekend, I decided best to cross the 7-mile bridge early and make a stop in Islamorada for a quick swim - which is the right decision as the traffic from Marathon onwards is the solid ten mph crawl; as I finally reach the pool turning in Islamorada, it becomes obvious why, it’s Founders park Island Fest weekend! from what I can tell, two days of classic cars, food, live music and boats!

The Ron Levy pool is located right in the middle of the park; fortunately, parking is well organised, and by chance, I’m directed to a parking spot at the far end of the field, right next to the pool entrance!

Pay the day entry fee at reception (another cheap $3 swim!), make a quick change, douse myself in sunscreen to block the 89’ near midday sun, and I’m ready to make a start.

The outdoor pool has a country club feel, with palm trees, covered areas and astro-turfed artificial grass areas with sun beds, seating, and picnic tables surround the pool deck.

The pool is a sort of cross shape, a ‘slim’ 50m length dissected by a 25-yard x 8 lanes. The water is super clear and perfectly chilled for this hot day swim.

Complete 2,500 yards before the journey up to MIA via the Alamo rental car return (time to say goodbye to my trusted Dodge Durango!). I arrive at the airport far too early, fly through TSA and my flight is delayed… So time for a Corona or two.